Recipients of TA receive money for basic living expenses, SNAP benefits (if eligible), and Medicaid. Eligibility for TA is based on the household’s gross income, resources, and household composition.

In order to receive Temporary Assistance adult individuals must engage in employment and/or assigned work –related activities The Employment Unit helps employable individuals prepare for and to seek employment. The individuals who are exempt from working or have limitations due to physical and/or psychological impairment are expected to participate in work-related activities as determined by the treating physician and/or psychiatrist, which will help the individual to move towards self-sufficiency such as; rehabilitation, individual therapy, physical therapy, etc. The TA/Employment Unit may approve certain schoolings or trainings to help individuals obtain and maintain gainful employment. In addition, if eligible, the TA/Employment Unit can approve childcare, transportation, and work clothing for individuals engaged in employment and/or participating in approved employment activities. The TA/Employment Unit can approve car repair or purchase for applicants or recipients who are employed and meet the eligibility criteria.

There are two emergency cash assistance programs available:

EMERGENCY AID FOR FAMILIES (EAF)- Provides emergency assistance to household with a dependent child in the household who are ineligible to receive on-going TA benefits. The household must meet an income and resource test.

EMERGENCY AID TO ADULTS- Provides emergency assistance to adults in receipt of Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

The www.mybenefits.ny.gov website offers screening tools for eligibility for Temporary Assistance and other programs.